President - Vancouver College

Position: President

Reports To: Board of Directors

Location: Vancouver, BC

About Vancouver College

Vancouver College is a leading independent Catholic school dedicated to excellence in education and the development of young men rooted in Christian values. Established in 1922, the School is the only K-12 independent Catholic school for boys in British Columbia, and serves over 1,000 students. Vancouver College has developed a wide reputation for its spiritual program, outstanding academics and expansive co-curricular program.

The Vancouver College Vision for its students is to “Leave here as better men: faith-filled leaders living lives of love and service who pursue excellence of mind, body, and spirit.” As a diverse and inclusive Catholic faith and learning community, the School educates young men guided by the Gospel values and in the tradition of its spiritual founder, Blessed Edmund Rice, to develop the whole person, academically, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

There is a strong sense of belonging within the School and its extended community. The School’s new campus and revitalized facilities, completed in 2020, serve as testament to the dedication and generous support from generations of families, alumni, staff, and friends.

Position Overview

The President serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Vancouver College Limited (VCL), reporting to and serving at the discretion of the Board of Directors. This role is instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of the school, fostering an exceptional learning environment, and securing financial stability. The President is responsible for promoting and maintaining the Catholic identity of the school, enhancing community relations, and ensuring organizational excellence across all areas of operations.

Key Responsibilities

Mission and Leadership

1. Upholds and promotes the Catholic identity and Mission of Vancouver College.
2. Serves as a role model for the school's values and culture to all stakeholders.
3. Works collaboratively with the Principal to enhance the spiritual and educational experience of students and faculty.

Strategic Planning and Governance

1. Leads the development and implementation of the school's 5-year Strategic Plan.
2. Sits at the table with the Board of Directors, supports effective governance, and actively participates in all Board committees.
3. Keeps the Board informed on key issues, opportunities, and challenges facing the school.
4. Assists in recruiting and orienting new Board members.
5. Develops and executes a succession plan for both the President and Principal roles.

Advancement and Development

1. Oversees the Advancement Office and implements a comprehensive Advancement Program, including annual and capital campaigns, as well as endowment growth.
2. Leads fundraising initiatives to ensure long-term financial sustainability.
3. Engages with alumni, parents, benefactors, and corporate sponsors to strengthen financial support.
4. Serves as the chief spokesperson and advocates for Vancouver College in the broader community.

Financial and Business Management

1. Oversees financial planning and operations, working closely with the Director of Finance & Facilities.
2. Develops and presents the annual budget for Board approval.
3. Ensures effective risk management strategies are in place.
4. Administers the bursary program to support families in financial need.

Human Resources and Organizational Culture

1. Directly oversees the Principal, Director of Finance & Facilities, and Associate Director/Director of Advancement.
2. Leads performance planning, evaluation, and professional development initiatives.
3. Collaborates with the Board to implement a structured performance appraisal model.
4. Ensures fair and professional hiring, retention, and dismissal processes in consultation with the Board and Principal.

Community Engagement and Public Relations

1. Fosters an inclusive, transparent, and communicative school culture.
2. Serves as the primary liaison with key stakeholders, including trustees, parents, alumni, the Archdiocese, and the broader community.
3. Represents Vancouver College at various school and community events such as Homecoming, Finnegan Ball, and donor appreciation evenings.
4. Manages crisis communications and extraordinary events as needed.

Qualifications & Competencies

1. Deep understanding of and commitment to Catholic education and the values of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education.
2. Minimum Post Secondary degree in education, administration, business, general management or other relevant liberal arts or sciences pursuit.
3. Strong strategic leadership and financial acumen.
4. Proven experience in fundraising and advancement initiatives.
5. Excellent relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders.
6. Outstanding communication and public speaking abilities.
7. Experience in organizational leadership, governance, and operational management.
8. A track record of fostering collaboration, innovation, and community engagement.

Why Join Vancouver College?

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a visionary leader to make a lasting impact on a storied institution. The President of Vancouver College will shape the future of our school while preserving our rich traditions and values. If you are a passionate and dynamic leader dedicated to faith, education, and service, we encourage you to apply.

Compensation

A competitive total compensation package will be provided including a base salary likely within the range of $175,000 - $200,000 plus pension and benefits. Further details will be discussed in a personal interview.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter summarizing their reasons for being interested in the President’s role, along with a detailed chronological resume to Executive Recruitment consultants, McLaughlin & Associates: opportunities@kmclaughlin.com by April 15. This is a high-profile position of trust leading Vancouver College; please note that as an applicant to this confidential process you consent to Vancouver College’s review of professional information about you that is publicly available online.

Join us in our mission to inspire excellence in young men through faith, academics, and leadership.